The #1 Guide for What to See and Do in Romantic Carmel
Charming gardens, fairytale homes, sun-kissed beaches, art galleries, and award winning wineries and restaurants, Carmel has it all. If you have followed my Instagram or Pinterest accounts over the past few years you know I have an obsession with Carmel-by-the-Sea. Exploring this seaside paradise is one of my favorite pastimes. As a local, I have put together the perfect guide to help you know what to see and do once you get to this romantic destination. Your Carmel adventure awaits!
Follow the Breadcrumb Trail to the Fairy Tale Cottages
Check out the Fairy Tale Cottages. The majority can be found in the area bordered by Ocean Avenue on the south, Santa Rita on the east, 5th Avenue on the north and Torres Street on the west. To learn more about these darling cottages, check out another guide to these cottages at Adventures of a Home Town Tourist. This amazing lady is full of details, history, you name it! There is also a self-guided audio tour available. I suggest just walking or driving around because there many more quaint and beautiful homes, both old and new, throughout the town.
Time for Coffee & Snacks!
Grab a cup of coffee and snack at Carmel Valley Coffee or Carmel Bakery or tea and crumpets at The Tuck Box.
Check Out the Art Galleries
Art galleries can be found everywhere here. That is not surprising given the fact that Carmel was founded by artists and writers. There is so much creative energy here, no doubt inspired by the beauty all around.
Go Shopping, and Spend as Much as You Want, Little Missy or Mister
Go shopping. Most of the stores here are not chains, but there are the exceptions, for example, Anthropologie and Tiffany’s. That means you can find some very unique and special items. My friend Laurie, recently visiting from the LA area, swears that she can’t find her favorite wraps anywhere except for one little shop in Carmel. If you are a pet owner like me, check out the super cute Carmel Dog Shop and Diggidy Dog for toys, treats and more.
Play in Candy Land
Satisfy your sweet tooth at the Cottage of Sweets. Fudge, divinity, lemon drops, licorice and more await you in this magical cottage.
Hike at Point Lobos
Visit Point Lobos just south of Carmel River Beach. It is simply breathtaking, and you may even catch a glimpse of harbor seals and more!
Drink With the Dogs
Enjoy “yappy hour” with people and their pooches at Doris Day’s Cypree Inn. Guide yourself past the lovely outdoor seating area near the mural of Charlie Chaplin inside to the lounge. The walls are covered with Doris Day movie photos. Love this place!
You’re Starving, Get Something to Eat
There is no lack of amazing food here in Carmel-by-the-Sea. Enjoy mouth-watering meals at renowned restaurants. One of my personal favorites is Dametra, which has great vibes as well as tasty food. You might even get a musical serenade from one of the cooks while you eat. Other favorites are Mission Ranch, Grasing’s, Flaherty’s Seafood Girl & Oyster Bar, Il Fornaio, Tommy’s Wok and Miracle Sushi.
Find Zen at the Beach
I think the perfect time to go to the beach is near sunset. Watching those ethereal shades of color reflecting on the waves and clouds is simply magical. If you are bringing your fur baby, keep in mind that whilst dogs can run free on Carmel Beach, they are required to be on leash at Carmel River Beach. Also note that while surfing is popular, wading or swimming here is not advised due to dangerous sneaker waves and rip currents. In fact, Monastery Beach is referred to by locals as Mortuary Beach due to the number of folks swept out to sea there every year.
Time to Wine Down
Wine tasting is another awesome activity while you are here. There are tons of amazing and award winning wine tasting rooms in Carmel-by-the-Sea. My favorite is De Tierra, not only because their vineyard is just down the road from me, but also because they have a spectacular pinot noir and chardonnay!
Take Photos in Front of the Carmel Mural
Before you leave this fairytale town, don’t forget to snap a selfie in front of the Carmel-by-the-Sea mural. It is located at the corner of Mission Street and 6th Avenue across from Devendorf Park . You may want to check out my guide to the the most beautiful Instagrammable spots in the area as well!
Helpful Hints:
- Bring clothing you can layer, it can be quite chilly in the morning and evening here, and the wind can be very strong at the beach.
- Watch for pedestrians when driving, especially when on side streets where there are no sidewalks. Carmel residents are often out walking their dogs.
- Acquaint yourselves with all the beach regulations. My friend Whitney received a very steep fine for having a bonfire on the beach because she simply didn’t know the requirements. For more information, see beach rules.
- Parking is free, however, it is limited to 2 hours or less in the business district. Unlimited free parking is available at Vista Lobos parking lot on Torres and 3rd, the Sunset Center parking lot on 8th between Mission and San Carlos Streets, and the Del Mar parking lot near the beach at the end of Ocean Avenue. Be aware that many Carmel residents have “no parking” signs near their property and please be respectful of this.
Thank you for visiting my blog! I hope you found my guide to Carmel-by-the-Sea useful and informative. I just know you will love it! Wishing you peace, love, joy, and beautiful vistas.
